The indictment on Tuesday stems from a September pit bull attack that left a dog dead and its owner seriously injured.

The new law says the owner of a dog that kills or seriously injures someone can be charged with a felony if prosecutors prove they were criminally negligent in allowing the dog to get loose and attack.

William Cox was taking out the trash in the alley behind his home with his rat terrier, Patches, by his side, when two pit bulls attacked them, said Kevin Overstreet, director of Animal Services.

As Cox tried to save Patches from the dogs, he was injured.

Cox suffered a broken arm and several puncture wounds from the teeth of the pit bulls.

The dogs, which belonged to Johnson, were put down following a hearing.

Overstreet said Lubbock Police Department detectives investigated the case before turning it over to the Lubbock County Criminal District Attorney's Office.

The district attorney's office presented the case against Johnson, 26, to the grand jury Tuesday.

Johnson faces up to 10 years in prison because the dogs caused serious bodily injury to Cox.

This case could be a catalyst for making pet owners keep better watch over their animals, Overstreet said.

"I really think it sends a strong, clear message to citizens that I've got to be a responsible pet owner,' " he said. "It sends a strong message, no question."